The term “club drugs” was coined when raves became popular in the 1980s. Although raves are not as popular today, the use of club drugs has increased. These psychoactive drugs tend to be used mostly by young adults and teenagers at parties, dance clubs, bars, nightclubs, and concerts. However, club drugs are also becoming popular with older adults. Club drugs enhance social interaction as they foster a sense of empathy, physical closeness, and euphoria.
What are the Effects of Club Drugs?
The purpose of club drugs is to cause the user to experience sensory overload. They act on the user’s central nervous system, changing their sense of awareness, mood, and behavior. Often the drugs distort the user’s perception of colors, time, sounds, motion, and self. In many instances, the user is unable to communicate or think rationally. Sometimes they are not able to recognize reality, resulting in dangerous, unusual, or bizarre behaviors.
Certain club drugs cause the user to have an extreme amount of energy, allowing them to stay awake for long periods, sometimes days.
- MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) acts similar to stimulants and hallucinogens.
- Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant.
- Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic.
- Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) is a benzodiazepine and a depressant.
- LSD is a hallucinogen.
- Methamphetamine is a stimulant.
Popular Club Drugs and Their Street Names
According to American Family Physician, popular club drugs and their street names include:
- MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine): Ecstasy, Molly, XTC, Adam, X
- Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB): liquid ecstasy, G, Grievous Bodily Harm, nitro
- Ketamine (Ketalar): special K, vitamin K, super K, super acid, kit-kat, cat valiums, K
- Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol): Mexican valium, roofies, forget-me pill, R2, rophies,
- LSD: Acid, Heavenly blue, Golden Dragon, Zen, California sunshine, Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds
- Methamphetamine: Speed, crank, uppers, Cristina, rocket fuel, Scooby snax, cotton candy
Club Drug Addiction
Addiction to club drugs progresses through stages. Depending on the person and the drug used, personal experiences vary to some degree. Typically, addiction to club drugs begins with casual use at parties or clubs. As time passes, the person no longer finds the activity fun without using the drug. The only way they can enjoy themselves is by taking it. Over time dependency develops into addiction, and the individual needs to use the drug every day or multiple times a day. They are not taking it to have a good time. They are taking it to get through the day and avoid feeling bad.
Club Drug Withdrawal
Depending on the drug used, withdrawal symptoms range from mild to painfully agonizing. Withdrawal symptoms vary greatly because there is such a wide range of drugs, each affecting the body differently. Each one has its own set of symptoms and withdrawal timeline. Possible symptoms and their duration also depend on the following:
- The drug used and the length of time it was used
- Regular dosage
- User’s age and any underlying physical or mental health conditions
- If the drug was taken with alcohol or another drug
The American Family Physician article cited above provides the withdrawal symptoms of several of the common club drugs.
- MDMA withdrawal symptoms include depression, anxiety, irritability, as well as muscle cramps and nausea. The individual may have difficulty sleeping, problems with memory, and be unable to focus. Symptoms begin within three to six hours after the last use and can last for a few days to a week or longer.
- Ketamine withdrawal includes agitation and excitation. Chills, sweats, teary eyes, and an intense craving for the drug are common. Hallucinations may occur. The withdrawal timeline ranges from a few days to a week or longer.
- Rohypnol withdrawal may include headaches, nausea, diarrhea, muscle aches, and dizziness. Restlessness, irritability, tiredness, and a depressed mood are common. Blurry vision and tremors may occur. Blood pressure and heart rate increase. Confusion, paranoia, delirium, nightmares, and delusions may occur. Seizures, coma, and death are possible. Symptoms begin one to four days after the last dose and last for two weeks.
- According to the Encyclopedia of Psychopharmacology, LSD users do not experience withdrawal symptoms.
- According to Annals of Emergency Medicine, confusion, disorientation, agitation, anxiety, shakiness, and insomnia are common withdrawal symptoms of GHB. Nausea and vomiting may occur. Blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature will increase. There will be strong cravings. The individual may experience delirium, hallucinations, and seizures. Symptoms begin one to twenty-four hours after the last dose and increase in intensity over the next two or three days. Symptoms generally resolve after two weeks.
If You Need Help
If you or a loved one struggles with addiction, help is available. Call and speak to a professional at Canyon Vista Recovery Center, located in Mesa. Arizona. We will answer your questions and help you get started on your road to recovery.
